BOL plebiscite ‘generally very peaceful’ — AFP

MANILA — The plebiscite for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) on Monday was “generally very peaceful” despite reported election-related incidents, the military said.

“Okay naman. Sa ngayon tapos naman na ‘yung voting kasi 3 p.m. naman na so we’re waiting for the final turnout na details from ground units. Generally very peaceful naman,” Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Col. Gerry Besana told reporters.

“Of course with some isolated issues na hindi naman natin agad-agad din ma-attribute sa plebiscite. Minsan personal lang, nagkataon lang, nagkasabay lang. So far, secured naman na lahat tapos na, so counting naman tayo,” he added.

But he cited incidents of delayed transportation of election paraphernalia and a low voter turnout in Sulu, Lanao, and Basilan. Still, however, no violent incidents were reported during Monday’s BOL referendum.

“Wala namang major security issue. ‘Yung girian lang among supporters tapos ‘yung issue about interference ng other sectors naayos din naman natin,” Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana told reporters.

People of Mindanao on Monday voted to either ratify or reject the BOL, which would establish the proposed Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The first BOL plebiscite covered Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Cotabato City and Isabela City in Basilan while the second voting on February 6 will be held in Lanao del Norte (except Iligan City) and six towns in North Cotabato. /kga

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